CN114764278A

CN114764278A - Display device

Info

Publication number: CN114764278A
Application number: CN202210024931.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: 卜胜龙; 金基澈; 朴玉京
Original assignee: Samsung Display Co Ltd
Current assignee: Samsung Display Co Ltd
Priority date: 2021-01-12
Filing date: 2022-01-10
Publication date: 2022-07-19
Also published as: US20230418402A1; KR20220102186A; US11755134B2; US20220221953A1

Abstract

The application provides a display device, which includes: a first display region including first pixels, driving electrodes, and sensing electrodes; a second display region including second pixels, sub driving electrodes, and sub sensing electrodes; and an auxiliary electrode between the first display region and the second display region, wherein the number of first pixels per unit area of the first display region is greater than the number of second pixels per unit area of the second display region.

Description

Display device

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority from korean patent application No. 10-2021-0003666 filed in korean intellectual property office on 12.1.1.2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

Embodiments of the inventive concepts relate to a display device.

Background

With the development of the information society, demands for display devices for displaying images have diversified. For example, display devices have been applied to various electronic devices such as smart phones, digital cameras, notebook computers, navigation systems, and smart Televisions (TVs).

The display device may include an input interface, such as a touch sensing unit for sensing a touch from a user. The touch sensing unit includes a plurality of touch electrodes that are capacitively driven, and thus can detect a touch from a user.

The display device may further include various optical devices at a front portion of the display device, such as an image sensor for capturing an image, a proximity sensor for detecting whether a user is in proximity to the display device, and an illuminance sensor for detecting an illumination intensity of the display device.

Since display devices have been applied to various types of electronic devices, display devices having various design features have been implemented. For example, display devices in which holes are removed from their front and thus have widened display areas have been developed. When the hole at the front of the display device is removed, the optical device may be disposed to overlap the display panel.

Disclosure of Invention

Aspects of the present inventive concept provide a display apparatus capable of increasing touch sensitivity in a region where an optical sensor is disposed.

According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, a display apparatus includes: a first display region including first pixels, driving electrodes, and sensing electrodes; a second display region including second pixels, sub driving electrodes, and sub sensing electrodes; and an auxiliary electrode between the first display region and the second display region, wherein the number of first pixels per unit area of the first display region is greater than the number of second pixels per unit area of the second display region.

In an embodiment, the auxiliary electrodes may include a first auxiliary electrode between one of the driving electrodes and one of the sub driving electrodes, and a second auxiliary electrode between one of the sensing electrodes and one of the sub sensing electrodes.

In an embodiment, the driving electrode, the first auxiliary electrode, and the sub driving electrode may be electrically connected, and the sensing electrode, the second auxiliary electrode, and the sub sensing electrode may be electrically connected.

In an embodiment, the maximum width of the first auxiliary electrode may be greater than the maximum widths of the driving electrode and the sub-driving electrode.

In an embodiment, a maximum width of the second auxiliary electrode may be greater than maximum widths of the sensing electrode and the sub-sensing electrode.

In an embodiment, the auxiliary electrodes may further include third and fourth auxiliary electrodes, the third auxiliary electrode being spaced apart from the first and second auxiliary electrodes and may be between the other one of the driving electrodes and the other one of the sub-driving electrodes, and the fourth auxiliary electrode being spaced apart from the first, second and third auxiliary electrodes and may be between the other one of the sensing electrodes and the other one of the sub-sensing electrodes.

In an embodiment, the display device may further include a connection electrode between the sub driving electrodes and electrically connected to the sub driving electrodes. The connection electrode may overlap the sub sensing electrode.

In an embodiment, the sub driving electrode and the connection electrode may be disposed in the same layer.

In an embodiment, the connection electrode may be disposed in a different layer from the sub driving electrode.

In an embodiment, the first auxiliary electrode may be spaced apart from the driving electrode and the sub-driving electrode, and the second auxiliary electrode may be spaced apart from the sensing electrode and the sub-sensing electrode.

In an embodiment, the first auxiliary electrode and the second auxiliary electrode may be disposed in a different layer from the driving electrode, the sub driving electrode, the sensing electrode, and the sub sensing electrode.

In an embodiment, the first auxiliary electrode and the second auxiliary electrode may be disposed in the same layer as the driving electrode, the sub driving electrode, the sensing electrode, and the sub sensing electrode.

In an embodiment, the display device may further include an auxiliary touch electrode between the first auxiliary electrode and the driving electrode.

In an embodiment, the auxiliary touch electrodes may include auxiliary driving electrodes and auxiliary sensing electrodes. In an embodiment, the auxiliary driving electrode and the auxiliary sensing electrode may be spaced apart from the first auxiliary electrode and the driving electrode.

In an embodiment, the auxiliary drive electrodes may completely overlap the auxiliary sense electrodes.

In an embodiment, the auxiliary touch electrodes may include auxiliary driving electrodes and auxiliary sensing electrodes. The auxiliary driving electrode may extend in one direction. The auxiliary sensing electrode may extend in another direction to intersect with the auxiliary driving electrode.

In an embodiment, the display device may further include an optical device overlapping the second display region.

In an embodiment, the display device may further include a polarizing film overlapping the first display region but not overlapping the auxiliary electrode.

According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, a display apparatus includes: the first display area comprises a first pixel, a driving electrode and a sensing electrode; a second display region including second pixels, sub driving electrodes, and sub sensing electrodes; a polarizing film overlapping the first display region; and an auxiliary electrode between the first display region and the second display region, the auxiliary electrode not overlapping the polarizing film.

In an embodiment, the number of first pixels per unit area of the first display region may be greater than the number of second pixels per unit area of the second display region.

Drawings

The above and other features of the present inventive concept will become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

fig. 1 is a perspective view of a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the display apparatus of fig. 1 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 3 is a plan view of the display panel of fig. 1 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 4 is a sectional view taken along line a-a' of fig. 3, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 5 is a layout view of a touch sensing unit according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 6 is a layout diagram of the touch node of fig. 5 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 7 is a sectional view taken along line B-B' of fig. 6 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 8 is a layout view of a region a of fig. 5 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 9 is a layout view of a region a-1 of fig. 8 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 10A is a sectional view taken along line C-C of fig. 9 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 10B is a sectional view taken along line C-C of fig. 9, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 11A is a layout view of a region a-2 of fig. 8 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 11B is a layout view of a region B-1 of fig. 11A, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 12 is a sectional view taken along line D-D' of fig. 11B, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 13A is a layout view of a region a-2 of fig. 8 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 13B is a layout view of a region B-2 of fig. 13A, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 14 is a sectional view taken along line E-E' of fig. 13B, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 15 is a layout view of a region a of fig. 5 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 16 is a layout view of a region a-3 of fig. 15, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 17 is a sectional view taken along line F-F' of fig. 16, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 18 is a sectional view taken along line G-G' of fig. 16, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 19 is a sectional view taken along line G-G' of fig. 16, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 20 is a layout view of a region a-4 of fig. 15, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 21 is a sectional view taken along the line H-H' of fig. 20, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 22 is a sectional view taken along the line H-H' of fig. 20, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 23 is a layout view of a region a of fig. 5 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 24 is a layout view of a region a-5 of fig. 23 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 25 is a sectional view taken along the line I-I' of fig. 24, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 26 is a layout view of a region a-5 of fig. 23, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 27 is a sectional view taken along line J-J' of fig. 26, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 28 is a layout view of a region a of fig. 5 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 29 is a layout view illustrating first and second sub display regions of fig. 3 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 30 is a sectional view taken along line K-K' of fig. 29, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

fig. 31 is a layout view illustrating first and second sub display regions of fig. 3 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept; and

fig. 32 is a sectional view taken along line L-L' of fig. 31, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the inventive concept will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. Like reference numerals may refer to like elements throughout the specification and drawings.

Herein, when two or more elements or values are described as being substantially the same as or about equal to each other, it will be understood that the elements or values are the same as each other, the elements or values are equal to each other within measurement error, or are close enough in value to be functionally equal to each other if measurably unequal, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, as used herein, the term "about" includes the stated value and the average value within an acceptable range of deviation of the specified value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art when considering the measurement in question and the error associated with measurement of the specified quantity (e.g., limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" may mean within one or more standard deviations as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Further, it will be understood that while a parameter may be described herein as having a "about" particular value, according to exemplary embodiments, the parameter may be precisely or approximately a particular value within a measurement error, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Other uses of these and similar terms to describe relationships between components should be construed in a similar manner.

It will be understood that when an element such as a film, region, layer or element is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "coupled to" or "adjacent to" another element, it can be directly on, connected to, coupled to or adjacent to the other element or intervening elements may be present. When an element such as a film, region, layer or element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," "directly coupled to" or "directly adjacent to" another element, there may be no intervening elements present. It will also be understood that when a component is referred to as being "between" two components, it can be the only component between the two components, or one or more intervening components may also be present. It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being "over" another element, it can be the only element that is over the other element, or one or more intervening elements may also be over the other element. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements may be interpreted in a similar manner.

It will also be understood that the descriptions of features or aspects within each embodiment may be applicable to other similar features or aspects in other embodiments, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Accordingly, all of the features and structures described herein may be mixed and matched in any desired manner.

As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Spatially relative terms, such as "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" may include both an orientation of above and below.

When a feature is said to extend, protrude, or otherwise follow a certain direction, it will be understood that the feature may follow the direction in a negative direction (such as the opposite direction). Thus, the feature is not limited to following exactly one direction, but may follow along an axis formed by that direction, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the inventive concept. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the display device of fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a plan view of the display panel of fig. 1.

Referring to fig. 1 to 3, the display device 10 may be applied to a portable electronic device such as a mobile phone, a smart phone, a tablet personal computer, a mobile communication terminal, an electronic organizer, an electronic book, a Portable Multimedia Player (PMP), a navigation device, or an ultra mobile computer (UMPC). The display device 10 may also be applied to a Television (TV), a notebook computer, a monitor, a billboard, or an internet of things (IoT) device as a display unit. The display device 10 may also be applied to wearable devices such as a smart watch, a watch phone, a glasses type display, or a Head Mounted Display (HMD). Further, the display device 10 may also be applied to a dashboard of a vehicle, a center dash panel of a vehicle, a Central Information Display (CID) in the dashboard of a vehicle, an indoor mirror display that may replace a rear view mirror of a vehicle, or an entertainment display at the rear of a front seat of a vehicle. However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the display apparatus 10 may be applied to various other small, medium, or large electronic apparatuses.

A first direction (hereinafter, "X direction") parallel to the X axis may refer to a direction of a relatively short side of the display apparatus 10, for example, a horizontal direction of the display apparatus 10. The second direction (hereinafter, "Y direction") parallel to the Y axis may refer to a direction of a relatively long side of the display apparatus 10, for example, a vertical direction of the display apparatus 10. A third direction (hereinafter, "Z direction") parallel to the Z axis may refer to a thickness direction of the display apparatus 10.

In an embodiment, the display device 10 may have a rectangular-like shape in a plan view. In one example, as shown in fig. 1, the display device 10 may have a rectangular-like shape in plan view having a relatively short side in the X direction and a relatively long side in the Y direction. In an embodiment, a corner portion where a relatively short side and a relatively long side of the display device 10 meet may be rounded to have a predetermined curvature, or may be right-angled. However, the planar shape of the display device 10 is not particularly limited, but the display device 10 may be formed in various other shapes such as a non-quadrangular polygonal shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape in a plan view.

The display device 10 may be formed flat. Alternatively, one or more pairs of opposing sides of display device 10 may be curved. In one example, the left and right sides of the display device 10 may be curved. In an example, the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the display device 10 may be curved. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The display device 10 may include a cover window 100, a display panel 300, a display circuit board 310, a display driving circuit 320, a bracket 600, a main circuit board 700, optical devices 740, 750, 760, and 770, and a lower cover 900.

The cover window 100 may be disposed above the display panel 300 (e.g., in the Z direction) to cover the front surface of the display panel 300. Accordingly, the cover window 100 may protect the front surface of the display panel 300.

In an embodiment, the cover window 100 may include a light transmission area DA100 corresponding to the display panel 300 and a light blocking area NDA100 corresponding to the remaining portion of the display device 10. The light-shielding region NDA100 may be formed to be opaque. In an embodiment, the light-shielding area NDA100 may be formed as a decoration layer formed of a pattern that is visible to a user when an image is not displayed.

The display panel 300 may be disposed under the cover window 100 (e.g., in the Z direction). In an embodiment, the display panel 300 may be a light emitting display panel including light emitting elements. In one example, the display panel 300 may be an organic light emitting display panel using Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) including organic light emitting layers, an mLED display panel using micro light emitting diodes (mleds), a quantum dot light emitting display panel using quantum dot light emitting diodes, or an inorganic light emitting display panel using inorganic light emitting elements including inorganic semiconductors. Hereinafter, the display panel 300 will be described as an organic light emitting display panel for convenience of explanation, not limitation.

The display panel 300 may include a display area DA, and the display area DA may include a main display area MDA and a sub display area SDA. In an embodiment, the main display area MDA may have a size occupying a large portion of the display area DA. The sub display area SDA may be disposed on one side of the main display area MDA, for example, on an upper side (e.g., in the Y direction) of the main display area MDA, as shown in fig. 2. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, but the arrangement of the sub display area SDA may vary. The main display area MDA may be the first display area, and the sub display area SDA may be the second display area. As shown in the embodiment of fig. 3, the display panel 300 may further include a non-display area NDA. In an embodiment, the non-display area NDA may completely surround the display area DA (e.g., in the X and Y directions). However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

In an embodiment, the main display area MDA may not include a light transmission area capable of transmitting light therethrough, but may include only a pixel area having pixels for displaying an image. In an embodiment, the sub display area SDA may include both a light transmission area capable of transmitting light therethrough and a pixel area having pixels for displaying an image. Accordingly, the sub display area SDA may have a higher light transmittance than the main display area MDA.

Referring to the embodiments of fig. 2 and 3, the sub display area SDA may include a plurality of sub display areas, such as a first sub display area SDA1, a second sub display area SDA2, a third sub display area SDA3, and a fourth sub display area SDA 4. The first sub display area SDA1, the second sub display area SDA2, the third sub display area SDA3, and the fourth sub display area SDA4 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the first sub display area SDA1, the second sub display area SDA2, the third sub display area SDA3, and the fourth sub display area SDA4 may be surrounded by the main display area MDA.

In an embodiment, the first sub display area SDA1 may overlap the proximity sensor 740 in the Z direction. Therefore, even if the proximity sensor 740 is disposed to overlap the display panel 300, the proximity sensor 740 may detect light incident thereon from the front surface of the display device 10 through the first sub display area SDA 1.

In an embodiment, the second sub display area SDA2 may overlap with the illuminance sensor 750 in the Z direction. Therefore, even if the illuminance sensor 750 is disposed to overlap the display panel 300, the illuminance sensor 750 may detect light incident thereon through the second sub display area SDA2 from the front surface of the display device 10.

In an embodiment, the third sub-display area SDA3 may overlap the iris sensor 760 in the Z direction. Accordingly, even though the iris sensor 760 is disposed to overlap the display panel 300, the iris sensor 760 may detect light incident thereon through the third sub-display region SDA3 from the front surface of the display device 10.

In an embodiment, the fourth sub display area SDA4 may overlap the second camera sensor 770 in the Z direction. Accordingly, even if the second camera sensor 770 is disposed to overlap the display panel 300, the second camera sensor 770 may detect light incident thereon through the fourth sub display area SDA4 from the front surface of the display device 10.

Fig. 2 and 3 show that the sub display area SDA includes four sub display areas, such as a first sub display area SDA1, a second sub display area SDA2, a third sub display area SDA3, and a fourth sub display area SDA 4. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, the number of sub-display areas may depend on the number of optical devices. For example, the sub display regions may be disposed in one-to-one correspondence with the optical devices.

In addition, the embodiments of fig. 2 and 3 show that each of the first sub display area SDA1, the second sub display area SDA2, the third sub display area SDA3, and the fourth sub display area SDA4 has a circular shape. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, each of the first sub display area SDA1, the second sub display area SDA2, the third sub display area SDA3, and the fourth sub display area SDA4 may have a polygonal or elliptical shape.

In addition, the embodiments of fig. 2 and 3 show that the first sub-display area SDA1, the second sub-display area SDA2, the third sub-display area SDA3, and the fourth sub-display area SDA4 have the same size. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, the first sub display area SDA1, the second sub display area SDA2, the third sub display area SDA3, and the fourth sub display area SDA4 may have different sizes.

The display circuit board 310 and the display driving circuit 320 may be attached to one side of the display panel 300, such as a lower side in the Y direction. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. In an embodiment, the display circuit board 310 may be a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB) that is bendable, a rigid Printed Circuit Board (PCB) that is too rigid to be bendable, or a hybrid PCB having characteristics of both the rigid PCB and the FPCB.

The display driving circuit 320 may receive a control signal and a power supply voltage via the display circuit board 310, and may generate and output a signal and a voltage for driving the display panel 300. In an embodiment, the display driving circuit 320 may be formed as an Integrated Circuit (IC), and may be attached on the display panel 300 in a Chip On Glass (COG), a Chip On Plastic (COP), or an ultrasonic manner. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, the display driving circuit 320 may be attached on the display circuit board 310.

The touch driving circuit 330 may be disposed on the display circuit board 310. In an embodiment, the touch driving circuit 330 may be formed as an IC and may be attached on a top surface of the display circuit board 310. The touch driving circuit 330 may be electrically connected to the touch electrodes of the touch sensor layer of the display panel 300 via the display circuit board 310. The touch driving circuit 330 may output a touch driving signal to the touch electrode and may detect a voltage at which a capacitor of the touch electrode is filled.

The touch driving circuit 330 may generate touch data based on a change in an electrical signal detected by the touch electrode, may transmit the touch data to the main processor 710, and the main processor 710 may calculate coordinates of a touch by analyzing the touch data. In an embodiment, the touch may include a real touch or a proximity touch. A real touch refers to an input occurring when a finger of a user or an object such as a pen physically touches (e.g., directly contacts) an overlay window disposed on a sensor electrode layer. A proximity touch refers to an input that occurs when a user's finger or an object such as a pen approaches but does not physically touch the overlay window.

A power supply unit for supplying a display driving voltage for driving the display driving circuit 320 may be additionally provided on the display circuit board 310.

The stand 600 may be disposed under the display panel 300 (e.g., in the Z direction). In embodiments, the stent 600 may be formed of plastic, metal, or both. In an embodiment, a first camera hole CMH1 in which the first camera sensor 720 is inserted, a battery hole BH in which the battery 790 is disposed, a cable hole CAH through which the cable 314 connected to the display circuit board 310 passes, and a light-transmitting hole SH in which the optical devices 740, 750, 760, and 770 are disposed may be formed in the stand 600. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, the supporter 600 may not include the light transmission hole SH and may be formed not to overlap the sub display area SDA of the display panel 300.

The main circuit board 700 and the battery 790 may be disposed below the support 600 (e.g., in the Z direction). The main circuit board 700 may be a PCB or an FPCB.

In an embodiment, main circuit board 700 may include main processor 710, first camera sensor 720, main connector 730, and optical devices 740, 750, 760, and 770. Optical devices 740, 750, 760, and 770 may include a proximity sensor 740, an illuminance sensor 750, an iris sensor 760, and a second camera sensor 770.

In an embodiment, the first camera sensor 720 may be disposed on both the top and bottom surfaces of the main circuit board 700 (e.g., in the Z direction), the main processor 710 may be disposed on the top surface of the main circuit board 700 (e.g., in the Z direction), and the main connector 730 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the main circuit board 700 (e.g., in the Z direction). The proximity sensor 740, the illuminance sensor 750, the iris sensor 760, and the second camera sensor 770 may be disposed on the top surface of the main circuit board 700 (e.g., in the Z direction).

In an embodiment, the main processor 710 may control all functions of the display device 10. For example, the main processor 710 may provide digital video data to the display driving circuit 320 through the display circuit board 310 so that the display panel 300 may display an image. In addition, the main processor 710 may receive touch data from the touch driving circuit 330, may determine coordinates of a touch from a user, and may execute an application corresponding to an icon displayed at the touched coordinates. In addition, the main processor 710 may display an image captured by the first camera sensor 720 by converting first image data received from the first camera sensor 720 into digital video data and outputting the digital video data to the display driving circuit 320 via the display circuit board 310. In addition, the main processor 710 may control the display apparatus 10 according to sensor signals from the proximity sensor 740, the illuminance sensor 750, the iris sensor 760, and the second camera sensor 770.

The main processor 710 may determine whether an object exists near the front surface of the display device 10 according to the proximity sensor signal input thereto from the proximity sensor 740. In an embodiment, if an object exists near the front surface of the display device 10 during a call mode in which the user talks with another person using the display device 10, the main processor 710 may not execute an application corresponding to an icon at a touch coordinate from the user's touch.

The main processor 710 may determine the brightness of the front surface of the display apparatus 10 based on an illuminance sensor signal input thereto from the illuminance sensor 750. In an embodiment, the main processor 710 may adjust the luminance of an image displayed by the display panel 300 according to the brightness of the front surface of the display device 10.

The main processor 710 may determine whether the iris image of the user is identical to a previously stored iris image based on an iris sensor signal input thereto from the iris sensor 760. In an embodiment, if the iris image of the user is identical to a previously stored iris image, the main processor 710 may unlock the display device 10 and may display a main screen on the display panel 300.

The main processor 710 may generate digital video data based on the second image data received from the second camera sensor 770. In an embodiment, the main processor 710 may display an image (e.g., a still image or a moving image) captured by the second camera sensor 770 by outputting digital video data to the display driving circuit 320 via the display circuit board 310.

The first camera sensor 720 may process a still image or a moving image obtained by the image sensor, and may output the processed image to the main processor 710. The first camera sensor 720 may be a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor or a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) image sensor. The first camera sensor 720 may be exposed at the bottom of the lower cover 900 through the second camera hole CMH2, and thus may be able to capture an image of an object or background under the display device 10.

The cable 314 passing through the cable hole CAH of the cradle 600 may be connected to the main connector 730. Accordingly, the main circuit board 700 may be electrically connected to the display circuit board 310.

The proximity sensor 740 may be a sensor for detecting whether an object exists near the front surface of the display device 10. For example, in an embodiment, the proximity sensor 740 may include a light source that outputs light and a light receiver that receives light reflected from an object. The proximity sensor 740 may determine that an object exists near the front surface of the display device 10 based on the amount of light reflected from the object. When the proximity sensor 740 is disposed to overlap (e.g., in the Z direction) the light-transmitting hole SH of the stand 600, the sub-display area SDA of the display panel 300, and the light-transmitting area DA100 of the cover window 100, the proximity sensor 740 may generate a proximity sensor signal based on whether an object exists near the front surface of the display device 10, and may output the generated proximity sensor signal to the main processor 710.

The illuminance sensor 750 may be a sensor for detecting brightness at the front surface of the display apparatus 10. The illuminance sensor 750 may include a resistor whose resistance varies according to the brightness of light incident thereon. In an embodiment, the illuminance sensor 750 may determine the brightness at the front surface of the display device 10 based on the resistance of the resistor. Since the illuminance sensor 750 is disposed to overlap the light-transmitting hole SH of the stand 600, the sub-display area SDA of the display panel 300, and the light-transmitting area DA100 of the cover window 100 (e.g., in the Z direction), the illuminance sensor 750 may generate an illuminance sensor signal based on the brightness at the front surface of the display device 10, and may output the generated illuminance sensor signal to the main processor 710.

The iris sensor 760 may be a sensor for determining whether the captured iris image of the user is identical to an iris image previously stored in the memory. When the iris sensor 760 is disposed to overlap (e.g., in the Z direction) the light-transmitting hole SH of the stand 600, the sub-display area SDA of the display panel 300, and the light-transmitting area DA100 of the cover window 100, the iris sensor 760 may capture an image of the iris of the user over the display device 10. The iris sensor 760 may generate an iris sensor signal based on whether the captured iris image of the user is identical to an iris image previously stored in the memory, and may output the generated iris sensor signal to the main processor 710.

The second camera sensor 770 may process image frames, such as still images or moving images, obtained by the image sensor, and may output the processed image frames to the main processor 710. In an embodiment, the second camera sensor 770 may be a CMOS or CCD image sensor. In an embodiment, the pixel amount of the second camera sensor 770 may be smaller than the pixel amount of the first camera sensor 720, and the size of the second camera sensor 770 may also be smaller than the size of the first camera sensor 720. When the second camera sensor 770 is disposed to overlap (e.g., in the Z direction) the light-transmitting hole SH of the stand 600, the sub display area SDA of the display panel 300, and the light-transmitting area DA100 of the cover window 100, the second camera sensor 770 may capture an image of an object or a background over the display device 10.

The battery 790 may be disposed so as not to overlap with the main circuit board 700 in the Z direction. The battery 790 may overlap (e.g., in the Z direction) with a battery hole BH of the cradle 600.

A mobile communication module, which can transmit or receive wireless signals to or from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server via a mobile communication network, can also be provided in the main circuit board 700. The wireless signals may include audio signals, video call signals, and various types of data that may be transmitted in text/multimedia messages.

The lower cover 900 may be disposed below the main circuit board 700 and the battery 790 (e.g., in the Z direction). The lower cover 900 may be coupled and fixed to the bracket 600. The lower cover 900 may form a bottom appearance of the display device 10. In embodiments, the lower cover 900 may be formed of plastic, metal, or both.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 2, a second camera hole CMH2 exposing the bottom of the first camera sensor 720 may be formed in the lower cover 900. However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the position of the first camera sensor 720 and the positions of the first and second camera holes CMH1 and CMH2 corresponding to the first camera sensor 720 may be different from those shown in fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a sectional view taken along line a-a' of fig. 3.

Referring to the embodiment of fig. 4, the display panel 300 may include a substrate SUB, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light emitting element layer EML, an encapsulation layer TFEL, a touch sensing layer TSL, and a polarizing film POL.

In an embodiment, the substrate SUB may be formed of an insulating material such as glass, quartz, or polymer resin. The polymer resin may be, for example, Polyethersulfone (PES), Polyacrylate (PA), Polyarylate (PAR), Polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyallyl esters, Polyimide (PI), polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate (CAT), Cellulose Acetate Propionate (CAP), and combinations thereof. Alternatively, the substrate SUB may include a metal material. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The substrate SUB may be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate that may be bent, folded or rolled. In embodiments where the substrate SUB is a flexible substrate, the substrate SUB may be formed of polyimide. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The thin-film-transistor layer TFTL may be disposed on the substrate SUB (e.g., in the Z-direction). In an embodiment, not only the thin film transistor of each pixel but also the scan line and the data line may be formed in the thin film transistor layer TFTL. Each of the thin film transistors may include a gate electrode, a semiconductor layer, a source electrode, and a drain electrode.

The light emitting element layer EML may be disposed on the thin-film transistor layer TFTL (e.g., in the Z direction). The light emitting element layer EML may include a pixel including a pixel electrode, a light emitting layer, and a common electrode, and a pixel defining film defining the pixel. In an embodiment, the light emitting layer may be an organic light emitting layer including an organic material. In this embodiment, the light emitting layer may include a hole transport layer, an organic emission layer, and an electron transport layer. When a predetermined voltage is applied to the pixel electrode and a common voltage is applied to the common electrode via the thin film transistor in the thin film transistor layer TFTL, holes from the hole transport layer and electrons from the electron transport layer may move to the organic emission layer. Then, the holes and the electrons may be combined together in the organic emission layer, and thus light may be emitted.

The encapsulation layer TFEL may be disposed on the light emitting element layer EML (e.g., in the Z direction). The encapsulation layer TFEL may be disposed to cover the thin-film transistor layer TFTL and the light emitting element layer EML.

In an embodiment, the encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic film to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the light emitting element layer EML. The inorganic film may be a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. In addition, the encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one organic film to protect the light emitting element layer EML from foreign materials such as dust. In an embodiment, the organic film may include an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The touch sensing layer TSL may be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL (e.g., in the Z direction). For example, in an embodiment, the touch sensing layer TSL may be directly disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. In an embodiment in which the touch sensing layer TSL is directly disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL, the thickness of the display device 10 may be reduced as compared to an embodiment in which a separate touch panel including the touch sensing layer TSL is attached on the encapsulation layer TFEL.

The touch sensing layer TSL may include a touch electrode for capacitively detecting a touch from a user. For example, in an embodiment, the touch sensing layer TSL may detect a touch from a user in at least one of a self-capacitance manner and a mutual capacitance manner by using a touch electrode.

The polarizing film POL may be disposed on the touch sensing layer TSL (e.g., in the Z direction) to prevent degradation of visibility due to reflection of external light. The polarizing film POL may include a linear polarizing plate and a phase retardation film, such as a quarter-wavelength (λ/4) plate.

The cover window 100 (see fig. 2) may be disposed on the polarizing film POL (e.g., in the Z direction). In this embodiment, the polarizing film POL and the cover window 100 may be attached together via an adhesive member such as an Optically Clear Adhesive (OCA) or an Optically Clear Resin (OCR). However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

Fig. 5 is a layout view of a touch sensing unit according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

Fig. 5 shows that the touch sensing layer TSL includes two types of electrodes, e.g., a driving electrode TE and a sensing electrode RE, and is driven in a mutual capacitance manner that applies a touch driving signal to the driving electrode TE and detects a mutual capacitance change in a plurality of touch nodes TN (see fig. 6) via the sensing electrode RE.

For convenience, fig. 5 shows only the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the dummy pattern DE, the touch lines TL1, TL2, and RL, and the touch pads TP1 and TP 2.

Referring to the embodiment of fig. 5, the touch sensing layer TSL may include a touch sensing area TSA for detecting a touch from a user and a touch peripheral area TPA around the touch sensing area TSA. For example, as shown in the embodiment of fig. 5, the touch peripheral area TPA may completely surround the touch sensing area TSA (e.g., in the X and Y directions). However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. The touch sensing area TSA may overlap the display area DA (of fig. 3), and the touch peripheral area TPA may overlap the non-display area NDA (of fig. 3).

The touch sensing area TSA includes driving electrodes TE, sensing electrodes RE, and dummy patterns DE. The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be electrodes for forming a mutual capacitance to detect a touch from an object or from a user.

The sensing electrodes RE may be arranged in parallel in the X and Y directions. For example, in an embodiment, the sensing electrodes RE may be electrically connected to each other in the X direction. The sensing electrodes RE may be connected to each other in the X direction. The sensing electrodes RE may be electrically isolated from each other in the Y direction. Accordingly, a plurality of touch nodes TN (fig. 6) forming mutual capacitance may be disposed at the intersections between the driving electrodes TE and the sensing electrodes RE. The touch node TN may correspond to an intersection between the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

The drive electrodes TE may be arranged in parallel in the X direction and the Y direction. In an embodiment, the driving electrodes TE may be electrically isolated from each other in the X direction. The driving electrodes TE may be electrically connected to each other in the Y direction. In one example, referring to fig. 5 to 6, the driving electrodes TE may BE connected to each other in the Y direction via first connection electrodes BE 1.

The dummy pattern DE may be surrounded by the driving electrode TE or the sensing electrode RE (e.g., in the X and Y directions). The dummy pattern DE may be electrically isolated from the driving electrode TE or the sensing electrode RE. The dummy pattern DE may be spaced apart from the driving electrode TE or the sensing electrode RE. The dummy pattern DE may be electrically floated.

Fig. 5 shows that the driving electrodes TE, the sensing electrodes RE, and the dummy patterns DE have a diamond shape in a plan view. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in the embodiment, the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, and the dummy pattern DE may have a non-rhomboid quadrangular shape, a non-quadrangular polygonal shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape in a plan view.

The touch lines TL1, TL2, and RL may be disposed in the touch peripheral area TPA. The touch lines TL1, TL2, and RL may include a touch sensing line RL connected to the sensing electrode RE, and first and second touch driving lines TL1 and TL2 connected to the driving electrode TE.

The sensing electrodes RE disposed on one side of the touch sensing region TSA may be connected to the touch sensing lines RL one to one. In one example, as shown in fig. 5, the sensing electrodes RE electrically connected to each other in the X direction and disposed at the right end of the touch sensing area TSA may be connected to the touch sensing lines RL. In an embodiment, the touch sensing lines RL may be connected to the second touch pads TP2 one to one. Accordingly, the touch driving circuit 330 (see fig. 3) may be electrically connected to the sensing electrode RE.

The driving electrodes TE disposed on one side of the touch sensing area TSA may be connected to the first touch driving lines TL1 one-to-one, and the driving electrodes TE disposed on the other side of the touch sensing area TSA may be connected to the second touch driving lines TL2 one-to-one. In one example, as shown in fig. 5, the driving electrodes TE electrically connected to each other in the Y direction and disposed at the lower end of the touch sensing area TSA may be connected to the first touch driving lines TL1 one to one, and the driving electrodes TE electrically connected to each other in the Y direction and disposed at the upper end of the touch sensing area TSA may be connected to the second touch driving lines TL2 one to one. The second touch driving line TL2 may be connected to the driving electrode TE above the touch sensing area TSA (e.g., in the Y direction), and may pass through a left portion of the touch peripheral area TPA outside the touch sensing area TSA (e.g., in the X direction).

The first and second touch driving lines TL1 and TL2 may be connected to the first touch pad TP1 one-to-one. Accordingly, the touch driving circuit 330 may be electrically connected to the driving electrode TE. Since the driving electrodes TE are connected to the first and second touch driving lines TL1 and TL2 on both sides of the touch sensing area TSA and thus are capable of receiving the touch driving signals, it is possible to prevent a difference that may be caused between the touch driving signals applied to the driving electrodes TE on the lower side of the touch sensing area TSA and the touch driving signals applied to the driving electrodes TE on the upper side of the touch sensing area TSA due to RC delay in the touch driving signals.

The first touch pad area TPA1, in which the first touch pad TP1 is disposed, may be disposed on one side of the display pad area DPA, in which the display pad DP is disposed. A second touch pad area TPA2 in which the second touch pad TP2 is disposed may be disposed on the other side of the display pad area DPA. For example, as shown in the embodiment of fig. 5, the first touch pad area TPA1 may be disposed on the left side of the display pad area DPA (e.g., in the X direction), and the second touch pad area TPA2 may be disposed on the right side of the display pad area DPA (e.g., in the X direction). However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. The display pad DP may be electrically connected to a data line of the display panel 300 (see fig. 3).

The display pad area DPA, the first touch pad area TPA1, and the second touch pad area TPA2 may correspond to pads of the display panel 300 connected to the display circuit board 310 of fig. 2. The display circuit board 310 may be disposed on the display pad DP, the first touch pad TP1, and the second touch pad TP 2. The display pad DP, the first touch pad TP1, and the second touch pad TP2 may be electrically connected to the display circuit board 310 via an anisotropic conductive film and a conductive adhesive member. Accordingly, the display pad DP, the first touch pad TP1, and the second touch pad TP2 may be electrically connected to the touch driving circuit 330 disposed on the display circuit board 310.

For convenience, fig. 5 illustrates that the first sub display area SDA1 does not overlap the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in the embodiment, the second sub display area SDA2, the third sub display area SDA3, and the fourth sub display area SDA4 may not overlap the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

Since the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE do not overlap the first sub display area SDA1, the driving electrode TE adjacent to the first sub display area SDA1 may have a different planar shape from the driving electrode TE not adjacent to the first sub display area SDA 1. In addition, the driving electrode TE adjacent to the first sub display area SDA1 may have a smaller size than the driving electrode TE not adjacent to the first sub display area SDA 1.

In addition, since the sensing electrode RE does not overlap the first sub-display area SDA1, the sensing electrode RE adjacent to the first sub-display area SDA1 may have a different planar shape from the sensing electrode RE not adjacent to the first sub-display area SDA 1. In addition, the sensing electrode RE adjacent to the first sub-display area SDA1 may have a smaller size than the sensing electrode RE not adjacent to the first sub-display area SDA 1.

Fig. 6 is a layout diagram illustrating the touch node of fig. 5.

Referring to the embodiment of fig. 6, the touch node TN may be defined as an intersection between the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

When the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE are disposed in the same layer, the driving electrode TE may be spaced apart from the sensing electrode RE. That is, a gap may be formed between the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

In addition, the dummy pattern DE may be disposed in the same layer as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. That is, gaps may also be formed between the driving electrodes TE and the dummy patterns DE and between the sensing electrodes RE and the dummy patterns DE.

In an embodiment, the first connection electrode BE1 may BE disposed in a different layer from the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. In an embodiment, the first connection electrode BE1 may BE formed to BE bent at least once. In the embodiment of fig. 6, each of the first connection electrodes BE1 is formed in the shape of a sharp bracket (such as "<" or ">). However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the planar shape of the first connection electrode BE1 may vary. Since each pair of adjacent driving electrodes TE in the Y direction are connected through the plurality of first connection electrodes BE1, the driving electrodes TE can BE stably connected in the Y direction even if one of the first connection electrodes BE1 is disconnected. Fig. 6 shows that every two adjacent driving electrodes TE are connected through one first connection electrode BE 1. However, the number of the first connection electrodes BE1 for connecting every two adjacent driving electrodes TE is not particularly limited.

The first connection electrodes BE1 may overlap the drive electrodes TE adjacent to each other in the Y direction in the thickness direction of the substrate SUB (for example, in the Z direction). The first connection electrode BE1 may overlap the sense electrode RE (e.g., in the Z direction). The first and second sides of each of the first connection electrodes BE1 may BE connected to a pair of adjacent driving electrodes TE in the Y direction via the first touch contact hole TCNT 1.

Due to the presence of the first connection electrode BE1, the drive electrode TE may BE electrically isolated from the sense electrode RE at the intersection between the drive electrode TE and the sense electrode RE. Therefore, a mutual capacitance may be formed between the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

The driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, and the first connection electrode BE1 may have a mesh or fishnet shape in a plan view. Further, the dummy pattern DE may have a mesh or a fish net shape in a plan view. Accordingly, the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the first connection electrode BE1, and the dummy pattern DE may not overlap with the emission units EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA14 of each first pixel PX 1. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the brightness of light emitted from the emission units EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA14 from being lowered due to being blocked by the driving electrodes TE, the sensing electrodes RE, the first connection electrodes BE1, and the dummy pattern DE.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 6, the first pixel PX1 may include a first emission unit EA11 emitting light of a first color, a second emission unit EA12 emitting light of a second color, a third emission unit EA13 emitting light of a third color, and a fourth emission unit EA14 emitting light of the second color. In one example, the first, second, and third colors may be red, green, and blue, respectively. Fig. 6 shows that the second and fourth emission units EA12 and EA14 emit light of the same color. However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the first to fourth emission units EA11 to EA14 may emit various colors. For example, the second and fourth emission units EA12 and EA14 may emit different colors of light.

The first and second emission units EA11 and EA12 may be adjacent to each other in a fourth direction DR4, which extends between the X and Y directions and is perpendicular to the Z direction, DR 4. For example, the fourth direction DR4 may be inclined at an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the X direction. The third and fourth emission units EA13 and EA14 may be adjacent to each other in the fourth direction DR 4. The first and fourth emission units EA11 and EA14 may be adjacent to each other in a fifth direction DR5, which extends between the X and Y directions and is perpendicular to the fourth directions DR4 and Z directions, DR 5. The second and third emission units EA12 and EA13 may be adjacent to each other in the fifth direction DR 5.

In an embodiment, the first, second, third, and fourth emission units EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA14 may have a diamond or rectangular shape in a plan view. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, the first emission unit EA11, the second emission unit EA12, the third emission unit EA13, and the fourth emission unit EA14 may have a non-quadrangular polygonal shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape in a plan view. Fig. 6 shows that the third emission unit EA13 has a maximum size and the second emission unit EA12 and the fourth emission unit EA14 have a minimum size. However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the respective sizes of the first through fourth emission units EA11 through EA14 may vary.

In an embodiment, the second and fourth emission units EA12 and EA14 may be arranged in odd rows. The second and fourth emission units EA12 and EA14 may be arranged in parallel to each other in each of the odd-numbered rows in the X direction. The second and fourth emission units EA12 and EA14 may be alternately arranged in each of the odd-numbered rows. Each of the second emission units EA12 may have a relatively long side in the fourth direction DR4 and a relatively short side in the fifth direction DR5, and each of the fourth emission units EA14 may have a relatively short side in the fourth direction DR4 and a relatively long side in the fifth direction DR 5. The fourth direction DR4 may be a diagonal direction between the X direction and the Y direction, and may be inclined at an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the X direction. The fifth direction DR5 may be a direction orthogonal to the fourth direction DR 4.

The first and third emission units EA11 and EA13 may be arranged in even-numbered rows. The first and third emission units EA11 and EA13 may be arranged parallel to each other in each of the even-numbered rows in the X direction. The first and third emission units EA11 and EA13 may be alternately arranged in each of the even-numbered rows.

The second and fourth emission cells EA12 and EA14 may be arranged in odd columns. The second and fourth emission units EA12 and EA14 may be arranged in parallel to each other in each of odd columns in the Y direction. The second and fourth emission units EA12 and EA14 may be alternately arranged in each of the odd columns.

The first and third emission units EA11 and EA13 may be arranged in even columns. The first and third emission units EA11 and EA13 may be arranged parallel to each other in each of even columns in the Y direction. The first and third emission units EA11 and EA13 may be alternately arranged in each of the even columns.

Fig. 7 is a sectional view taken along line B-B' of fig. 6.

Referring to fig. 7, a barrier film BR may be disposed on the substrate SUB (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z-direction). The substrate SUB may be formed of an insulating material such as a polymer resin. In one example, the substrate SUB may be formed of polyimide. The substrate SUB may be a flexible substrate that is bendable, foldable or rollable.

The barrier film BR is a film for protecting the transistors of the thin-film transistor layer TFTL and the light-emitting layer 172 of the light-emitting element layer EML from moisture that may permeate into the substrate SUB, which is susceptible to moisture. In an embodiment, the barrier film BR may include a plurality of inorganic films alternately stacked. In one example, the barrier film BR may be formed in a plurality of layers in which one or more inorganic films such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and/or an aluminum oxide layer are alternately stacked.

The thin film transistor ST1 may be disposed on the barrier film BR. The thin film transistor ST1 may include an active layer ACT1, a gate electrode G1, a source electrode S1, and a drain electrode D1.

The active layer ACT1, the source electrode S1, and the drain electrode D1 of the thin film transistor ST1 are provided on the barrier film BR (for example, directly provided thereon in the Z direction). In an embodiment, the active layer ACT1 of the thin film transistor ST1 may include polycrystalline silicon, single crystal silicon, low temperature polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, or an oxide semiconductor. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. The active layer ACT1 overlapping with the gate electrode G1 in the thickness direction (e.g., Z direction) of the substrate SUB may be defined as a channel region. The source electrode S1 and the drain electrode D1 may be regions that do not overlap with the gate electrode G1 in the Z direction. In an embodiment, the source electrode S1 and the drain electrode D1 may include silicon or an oxide semiconductor doped with ions or impurities, and thus may have conductivity.

The gate insulating film 130 may be provided on (e.g., directly on in the Z direction) the active layer ACT1, the source electrode S1, and the drain electrode D1 of the thin film transistor ST 1. In an embodiment, the gate insulating film 130 may be formed as an inorganic film such as, for example, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The gate electrode G1 of the thin film transistor ST1 may be provided on the gate insulating film 130 (e.g., directly provided thereon in the Z direction). The gate electrode G1 may overlap the active layer ACT1 in the Z direction. In an embodiment, the gate electrode G1 may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

The first interlayer insulating film 141 may be disposed on (e.g., disposed directly on in the Z direction) the gate electrode G1 of the thin film transistor ST 1. In an embodiment, the first interlayer insulating film 141 may be formed as an inorganic film such as, for example, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. The first interlayer insulating film 141 may be formed as a multilayer inorganic film.

The capacitor electrode CAE may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating film 141 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). As shown in the embodiment of fig. 7, the capacitor electrode CAE may overlap with the gate electrode G1 of the thin film transistor ST1 in the Z direction. Since the first interlayer insulating film 141 has a predetermined dielectric constant, a capacitor may be formed of the capacitor electrode CAE, the gate electrode G1, and the first interlayer insulating film 141. In an embodiment, the capacitor electrode CAE may be formed as a single layer or a plurality of layers including Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, Cu, or an alloy thereof. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The second interlayer insulating film 142 may be disposed on (e.g., directly on in the Z direction) the capacitor electrode CAE. In an embodiment, the second interlayer insulating film 142 may be formed as an inorganic film such as, for example, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. The second interlayer insulating film 142 may be formed as a multilayer inorganic film. The first interlayer insulating film 141 and the second interlayer insulating film 142 may be collectively referred to as an interlayer insulating film 140.

The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be provided on the second interlayer insulating film 142 (for example, directly provided thereon in the Z direction). The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be connected to the drain electrode D1 of the thin film transistor ST1 through a first connection contact hole ANCT1, and the first connection contact hole ANCT1 penetrates the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142. In an embodiment, the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer including Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, Cu, or an alloy thereof. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The first planarization film 160 for planarizing any difference in height formed by the thin film transistor ST1 may be provided on the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 (for example, directly provided thereon in the Z direction). In an embodiment, the first planarization film 160 may be formed as an organic film including an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin.

The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 may be provided on the first planarization film 160 (e.g., directly provided thereon in the Z direction). The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 may be connected to the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 through a second connection contact hole ANCT2 penetrating the first planarization film 160. In an embodiment, the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer including Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, Cu, or an alloy thereof. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The second planarization film 180 may be disposed on (e.g., disposed directly on in the Z direction) the second anode connection electrode and 2 and the first planarization film 160. In an embodiment, the second planarization film 180 may be formed as an organic film including an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The light emitting elements LEL and the banks 190 may be disposed on the second planarization film 180 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). The light emitting element LEL includes a pixel electrode 171, a light emitting layer 172, and a common electrode 173.

The pixel electrode 171 may be disposed on the second planarization film 180 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z-direction). The pixel electrode 171 may be connected to the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 through a third connection contact hole ANCT3 penetrating the second planarization film 180.

In an embodiment including a top emission structure that emits light in a direction from the light emitting layer 172 to the common electrode 173, the pixel electrode 171 may be formed of a metal material having high reflectivity, such as a stack of Al and Ti (e.g., Ti/Al/Ti), a stack of Al and Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) (e.g., ITO/Al/ITO), a silver-palladium-copper (APC) alloy, or a stack of an APC alloy and ITO (e.g., ITO/APC/ITO). However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The bank 190 may be formed to partition the pixel electrode 171 on the second planarization film 180, thereby defining the first emission unit EA11, the second emission unit EA12, the third emission unit EA13, and the fourth emission unit EA14 (see fig. 6). The bank 190 may be disposed to cover an edge of each of the pixel electrodes 171 and expose a central portion of the pixel electrode 171. In an embodiment, the bank 190 may be formed as an organic film including an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

Each of the first, second, third, and fourth emission units EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA14 may refer to a region in which one of the pixel electrodes 171, one of the light-emitting layers 172, and the common electrode 173 are sequentially stacked (e.g., in the Z direction) such that holes from the corresponding pixel electrode 171 and electrons from the common electrode 173 are combined together in the corresponding light-emitting layer 172 and thus emit light.

The light emitting layer 172 may be disposed on (e.g., directly on in the Z direction) the pixel electrode 171 and the bank 190. In an embodiment, the light emitting layer 172 may include an organic material and may emit light of a predetermined color. In one example, the light emitting layer 172 may include a hole transport layer, an organic material layer, and an electron transport layer.

The common electrode 173 may be disposed on the light emitting layer 172 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). The common electrode 173 may be disposed to cover the light emitting layer 172. In an embodiment, the common electrode 173 may be a layer commonly formed for all of the first, second, third, and fourth emission cells EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA 14. In an embodiment, a capping layer may be formed on the common electrode 173 (e.g., directly thereon in the Z direction).

In embodiments including the top emission structure, the common electrode 173 may be formed of a Transparent Conductive Oxide (TCO) such as ITO or Indium Zinc Oxide (IZO) capable of transmitting light therethrough, or a semi-transparent conductive material such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy thereof. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. In the embodiment in which the common electrode 173 is formed of the semitransparent metal material, the emission efficiency of the light emitting element LEL may be increased due to the microcavity.

The encapsulation layer TFEL may be disposed on the common electrode 173 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). The encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic film to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the light emitting element layer EML. In addition, the encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one organic film to protect the light emitting element layer EML from foreign materials such as dust. In one example, the encapsulation layer TFEL may include a first encapsulation inorganic film TFE1, an encapsulation organic film TFE2, and a second encapsulation inorganic film TFE 3.

The first encapsulation inorganic film TFE1 may be disposed on the common electrode 173 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z-direction), the encapsulation organic film TFE2 may be disposed on the first encapsulation inorganic film TFE1 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z-direction), and the second encapsulation inorganic film TFE3 may be disposed on the encapsulation organic film TFE2 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z-direction). In an embodiment, the first and second encapsulating inorganic films TFE1 and TFE3 may be formed as a multilayer in which one or more inorganic films such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and/or an aluminum oxide layer are alternately stacked. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. The encapsulation organic film TFE2 may be formed as an organic film including an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the number of encapsulating organic films and encapsulating inorganic films may vary.

The touch sensing layer TSL may be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). The touch sensing layer TSL may include a first touch insulating film TINS1, a first connection electrode BE1, a second touch insulating film TINS2, a driving electrode TE, a sensing electrode RE, and a third touch insulating film TINS 3.

The first touch insulating film TINS1 may be disposed on the second encapsulation inorganic film TFE3 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z-direction). In an embodiment, the first touch insulating film TINS1 may be formed as an inorganic film such as, for example, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The first connection electrode BE1 may BE disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). In an embodiment, the first connection electrode BE1 may BE formed in a single layer or a plurality of layers including Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, Cu, or an alloy thereof. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The second touch insulating film TINS2 may BE disposed on the first connection electrode BE1 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). In an embodiment, the second touch insulating film TINS2 may be formed as an inorganic film such as, for example, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. Alternatively, the second touch insulating film TINS2 may be formed as an organic film including an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). Not only the driving electrodes TE and the sensing electrodes RE, but also the dummy pattern DE, the first touch driving line TL1, the second touch driving line TL2, and the touch sensing line RL of fig. 5 may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be formed as a single layer or a multi-layer including Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, Cu, or an alloy thereof.

The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may overlap the first connection electrode BE1 in the Z direction. The driving electrode TE may BE connected to the first connection electrode BE1 through a first touch contact hole TCNT1 penetrating the second touch insulating film TINS 2.

The third touch insulating film TINS3 may be formed on (e.g., directly on) the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. The third touch insulating film TINS3 may planarize a height difference formed by the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, and the first connection electrode BE 1. In an embodiment, the third touch insulating film TINS3 may be formed as an organic film including an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

The polarizing film POL may be disposed on the touch sensing layer TSL to prevent degradation of visibility due to reflection of external light. In an embodiment, the polarizing film POL may include a linear polarizing plate and a phase retardation film, such as a λ/4 plate.

Fig. 8 is a layout diagram of the region a of fig. 5.

Fig. 8 illustrates the first sub-display area SDA1, the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE adjacent to the first sub-display area SDA1, and the auxiliary electrode TAE.

Referring to fig. 8, the first sub display area SDA1 may include a plurality of sub touch electrodes. In one example, the first sub display area SDA1 may include the first sub driving electrode STE1, the second sub driving electrode STE2, the sub sensing electrode SRE, and the auxiliary electrode TAE.

The first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed in an upper portion (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The width of the first sub driving electrode STE1 may decrease from the edge of the first sub display area SDA1 toward the center. In one example, the first sub drive electrode STE1 may have a fan shape in a plan view (e.g., in a plane defined in the X direction and the Y direction).

The second sub driving electrode STE2 may be disposed in a lower portion (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The width (e.g., the length in the X direction) of the second sub driving electrode STE2 may decrease from the edge toward the center of the first sub display area SDA 1. In one example, the second sub drive electrodes STE2 may have a fan shape in a plan view (e.g., in a plane defined in the X direction and the Y direction).

In an embodiment, the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 may be symmetrical to each other with respect to the center of the first sub display area SDA1 in the Y direction. The first sub driving electrode STE1 and the second sub driving electrode STE2 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other (e.g., in the Y direction).

The sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed in left and right portions (e.g., in the X direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The width (e.g., the length in the Y direction) of the sub sensing electrodes SRE may decrease from the edge of the first sub display area SDA1 toward the center. The sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed between the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the second sub driving electrode STE 2.

The adjacent first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 may BE connected via a plurality of second connection electrodes BE2 (of fig. 11A and 11B) overlapping the sub sensing electrode SRE (e.g., in the Z direction). That is, the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 may BE electrically isolated from the sub sensing electrode SRE at the intersection between the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE due to the second connection electrode BE 2. Accordingly, mutual capacitances may be formed between the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrodes SRE.

The first sub display area SDA1 may include a plurality of auxiliary electrodes TAE. For example, as shown in the embodiment of fig. 8, the auxiliary electrodes TAE may include a first auxiliary electrode TAE1, a second auxiliary electrode TAE2, a third auxiliary electrode TAE3, and a fourth auxiliary electrode TAE 4. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the number of the auxiliary electrodes TAE may vary.

The first, second, third, and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1, TAE2, TAE3, and TAE4 may be disposed along an edge of the first sub-display region SDA 1. The auxiliary electrodes TAE such as the first auxiliary electrode TAE1, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2, the third auxiliary electrode TAE3, and the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be disposed between the first pixel PX1 (fig. 9) of the main display area MDA and the second pixel PX2 (fig. 9) of the sub display area such as the first sub display area SDA 1. The first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be disposed in an upper portion (e.g., in the Y direction) of the edge of the first sub display area SDA1, and the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 may be disposed in a lower portion (e.g., in the Y direction) of the edge of the first sub display area SDA 1. The third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may be disposed in a left portion (e.g., in the X direction) of the edge of the first sub display area SDA1, and the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be disposed in a right portion (e.g., in the X direction) of the edge of the first sub display area SDA 1.

The first, second, third, and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1, TAE2, TAE3, and TAE4 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. That is, the first auxiliary electrode TAE1, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2, the third auxiliary electrode TAE3, and the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be electrically isolated from each other.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 8, the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be disposed between the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the driving electrode TE on the upper outer side of the first sub display area SDA 1. The first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be connected to the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the driving electrode TE on the upper outer side of the first sub display area SDA 1. As shown in the embodiment of fig. 8, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 may be disposed between the second sub driving electrode STE2 and the driving electrode TE on the lower outer side of the first sub display area SDA 1. The second auxiliary electrode TAE2 may be connected to the second sub driving electrode STE2 and the driving electrode TE on the lower outer side of the first sub display area SDA 1. When the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 are connected through the plurality of second connection electrodes BE2, the driving electrode TE and the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 may BE electrically connected to each other.

The third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may be between the sensing electrode RE and the sub-sensing electrode SRE outside the left side of the first sub-display area SDA1 (e.g., in the X direction). That is, the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may be connected to the sub sensing electrode SRE and the sensing electrode RE outside the left side of the first sub display area SDA 1. The fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be between the sense electrode RE and the sub-sense electrode SRE outside the right side of the first sub-display area SDA1 (e.g., in the X direction). The fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be connected to the sub sensing electrode SRE and the right outer sensing electrode RE of the first sub display area SDA 1. Accordingly, the sensing electrode RE and the sub-sensing electrode SRE may be electrically connected to each other.

The first sub display area SDA1 may include a plurality of light transmission areas TA (fig. 9 and 11A) to provide light to an optical device such as the proximity sensor 740. Accordingly, an area ratio occupied by the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 per unit area may be smaller than an area ratio occupied by the driving electrode TE per unit area. Also, an area ratio occupied by the sub-sensing electrodes SRE per unit area may be smaller than an area ratio occupied by the sensing electrodes RE per unit area. Accordingly, a mutual capacitance formed between the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE in the first sub display area SDA1 may be smaller than a mutual capacitance formed between the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE in the main display area MDA, and thus, a touch sensitivity may be relatively low in the first sub display area SDA 1.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 8, since the first and second auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE2 connected to the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2, respectively, and the third and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE3 and TAE4 connected to the sub sensing electrode SRE are disposed along the edge of the first sub display area SDA1, mutual capacitance formed between the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE in the first sub display area SDA1 may be enhanced. Accordingly, the touch sensitivity in the first sub display area SDA1 may be increased.

The second, third, and fourth sub-display areas SDA2, SDA3, and SDA4 of fig. 2 and 3 may be substantially the same as the first sub-display area SDA1 of fig. 8, and thus, a detailed description thereof will be omitted for convenience of explanation.

Fig. 9 is a layout view of the region a-1 of fig. 8. Fig. 10A is a sectional view taken along line C-C' of fig. 9.

Referring to fig. 9 and 10A, the first sub display area SDA1 may include the second pixel PX2, the first sub driving electrode STE1, the light transmission area TA, and the first auxiliary electrode TAE 1.

Each of the second pixels PX2 may include a first emission unit EA21 emitting light of a first color, a second emission unit EA22 emitting light of a second color, a third emission unit EA23 emitting light of a third color, and a fourth emission unit EA24 emitting light of the second color. Fig. 9 illustrates that the second emission unit EA22 and the fourth emission unit EA24 emit light of the same color. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. Alternatively, the second and fourth emission units EA22 and EA24 may emit different colors of light.

The first and second emission units EA21 and EA22 may be adjacent to each other in the X direction, the first and fourth emission units EA21 and EA24 may be adjacent to each other in the X direction, the second and third emission units EA22 and EA23 may be adjacent to each other in the X direction, and the third and fourth emission units EA23 and EA24 may be adjacent to each other in the X direction. The second and fourth emission units EA22 and EA24 may be adjacent to each other in the Y direction, and may be disposed between the first and third emission units EA21 and EA23 in the X direction.

The third emission unit EA23 may have a maximum size, and the second emission unit EA22 and the fourth emission unit EA24 may have a minimum size. The second emission unit EA22 and the fourth emission unit EA24 may have substantially the same size. However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the sizes of the first through fourth emission units EA21 through EA24 may vary.

In an embodiment, the first emission unit EA21 of each of the second pixels PX2 may have a size (e.g., an area in a plane defined in the X direction and the Y direction) larger than that of the first emission unit EA11 of each of the first pixels PX 1. The second emission unit EA22 of each of the second pixels PX2 may have a size (e.g., an area in a plane defined in the X-direction and the Y-direction) larger than that of the second emission unit EA12 of each of the first pixels PX 1. The third emission unit EA23 of each of the second pixels PX2 may have a size (e.g., an area in a plane defined in the X-direction and the Y-direction) larger than that of the third emission unit EA13 of each of the first pixels PX 1. The fourth emission unit EA24 of each of the second pixels PX2 may have a size (e.g., an area in a plane defined in the X-direction and the Y-direction) larger than that of the fourth emission unit EA14 of each of the first pixels PX 1.

The resolution of the main display area MDA may be higher than that of the first sub display area SDA 1. That is, the number of the first pixels PX1 per unit area of the main display area MDA may be greater than the number of the second pixels PX2 per unit area of the first sub display area SDA 1. The number of the emission units EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA14 per unit area of the main display area MDA may be less than the number of the emission units EA21, EA22, EA23, and EA24 per unit area of the first sub display area SDA 1.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 9, a pair of second pixels PX2 may be disposed adjacent to each other in the Y direction. The first emission unit EA21 of the first second pixel of the pair of second pixels PX2 may be adjacent to the third emission unit EA23 of the second pixel of the pair of second pixels PX2 in the Y direction. The fourth emission unit EA24 of the first second pixel of the pair of second pixels PX2 may be adjacent to the fourth emission unit EA24 of the second pixel of the pair of second pixels PX2 in the Y direction.

The first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed to surround at least one of the first emission unit EA21, the second emission unit EA22, the third emission unit EA23, and the fourth emission unit EA24 of each of the second pixels PX 2. For example, in one embodiment, the first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed to surround the first and third emission units EA21 and EA23 of each of the second pixels PX 2. In addition, the first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed to surround the second and fourth emission units EA22 and EA24 of each of the second pixels PX 2.

In an embodiment, the first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed between the first and second emission units EA21 and EA22 of each of the second pixels PX2, between the first and fourth emission units EA21 and EA24 of each of the second pixels PX2, between the second and third emission units EA22 and EA23 of each of the second pixels PX2, and between the third and fourth emission units EA23 and EA24 of each of the second pixels PX 2. As shown in the embodiment of fig. 9, the first sub driving electrode STE1 may not be disposed between the second and fourth emission units EA22 and EA24 of each of the second pixels PX 2.

The first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed between the first emission unit EA21 of the first second pixel of the pair of second pixels PX2 and the third emission unit EA23 of the second pixel of the pair of second pixels PX 2. In addition, the first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed between the third emission unit EA23 of the first second pixel of the pair of second pixels PX2 and the first emission unit EA21 of the second pixel of the pair of second pixels PX 2. In addition, the first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed between the fourth emission unit EA24 of the pair of second pixels PX 2.

The first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed to surround the edge of each pair of the second pixels PX 2. A portion of the first sub-drive electrodes STE1 surrounding two pairs of the second pixels PX2 adjacent to each other in the X direction may be connected to each other. A portion of the first sub-drive electrodes STE1 surrounding two pairs of the second pixels PX2 adjacent to each other in the Y-direction may be connected to each other.

The light transmission area TA may be defined by the first sub driving electrode STE 1. The light transmitting area TA may include a material capable of transmitting light therethrough. In an embodiment, each of the light-transmitting areas TA may include at least a portion of the substrate SUB, the barrier film BR, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, the second interlayer insulating film 142, the first planarization film 160, the second planarization film 180, the bank 190, the first encapsulating inorganic film TFE1, the encapsulating organic film TFE2, the second encapsulating inorganic film TFE3, the first touch insulating film TINS1, the second touch insulating film TINS2, and the third touch insulating film TINS 3. Accordingly, light incident on the light transmission area TA may pass through the light transmission area TA.

The first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be disposed between the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the driving electrode TE. The first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be connected to the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the driving electrode TE.

In an embodiment, the maximum width of the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be greater than the maximum widths of the first sub-driving electrode STE1 and the driving electrode TE. Similarly, the maximum width of the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 may be greater than the maximum widths of the second sub driving electrode STE2 and the driving electrode TE. Similarly, the maximum widths of the third and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE3 and TAE4 may be greater than the maximum widths of the sub-sensing electrodes SRE and RE. Since the first, second, third, and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1, TAE2, TAE3, and TAE4 are added, mutual capacitance formed between the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE in the first sub display area SDA1 may be enhanced.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 10A, the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). The second sub driving electrode STE2, the sub sensing electrode SRE, and the second, third, and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE2, TAE3, and TAE4 may also be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). That is, the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2, the sub sensing electrode SRE, the first auxiliary electrode TAE1, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2, the third auxiliary electrode TAE3, and the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be formed in the same layer as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE, and include the same material as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

The thin film transistor ST1, the capacitor electrode CAE, the first anode connection electrode ANDE1, and the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 of the second pixel PX2 of fig. 10A may be substantially the same as their corresponding counterparts of fig. 7, and thus, a detailed description thereof will be omitted for convenience of explanation. In addition, an emission unit (e.g., a fourth emission unit EA24) of the second pixel PX2 of fig. 10A may be substantially the same as its corresponding counterpart of fig. 7, and thus, a detailed description thereof will be omitted for convenience of explanation.

As shown in the embodiments of fig. 9 and 10A, since the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 is disposed in an additional space in the first sub display area SDA1 to be connected to the first sub driving electrode STE1, the mutual capacitance formed between the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE in the first sub display area SDA1 may be enhanced. Accordingly, the touch sensitivity in the first sub display area SDA1 may be increased.

Fig. 10B is a sectional view taken along line C-C' of fig. 9.

The embodiment of fig. 10B differs from the embodiment of fig. 10A in that: the polarizing film POL is not disposed in the first sub display area SDA 1. The embodiment of 10B will be described hereinafter, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment of fig. 10A.

Referring to fig. 10B, the polarizing film POL may not be disposed in the first sub-display area SDA1 to provide more light to an optical device such as the proximity sensor 740 disposed in the first sub-display area SDA 1. Accordingly, the polarizing film POL may not overlap (e.g., in the Z direction) the first, second, third, and fourth emission units EA21, EA22, EA23, and EA24 of the second pixel PX2 in the first sub-display area SDA 1. In addition, the polarizing film POL may not overlap the second sub driving electrode STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE (e.g., in the Z direction). In addition, the polarizing film POL, which may include a polarizing plate, may not overlap (e.g., in the Z direction) the first auxiliary electrode TAE1, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2, the third auxiliary electrode TAE3, and the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE 4.

Fig. 11A is a layout view of the region a-2 of fig. 8. Fig. 11B is a layout view of the region B-1 of fig. 11A. Fig. 12 is a sectional view taken along line D-D' of fig. 11B.

Referring to fig. 11A, 11B and 12, the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the second sub driving electrode STE2 may BE connected to each other through a plurality of second connection electrodes BE 2. Since the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 are connected to each other through the plurality of second connection electrodes BE2, the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 can stably maintain connection even if one of the second connection electrodes BE2 is disconnected. Fig. 11A shows that the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the second sub driving electrode STE2 are connected to each other through two second connection electrodes BE 2. However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, but the number of the second connection electrodes BE2 connecting the first sub driving electrodes STE1 and the second sub driving electrodes STE2 may BE varied.

The first sub driving electrode STE1 may BE connected to a first side of the second connection electrode BE2 through the second touch contact hole TCNT 2. The second sub driving electrode STE2 may BE connected to a second side of the second connection electrode BE2 through a third touch contact hole TCNT 3. The second connection electrode BE2 may overlap the sub-sensing electrode SRE (e.g., in the Z direction).

The first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). That is, the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed in the same layer as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE and include the same material as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

The second connection electrode BE2 may BE disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). That is, the second connection electrode BE2 may BE formed in the same layer as the first connection electrode BE1 and include the same material as the first connection electrode BE 1.

The second touch contact hole TCNT2 may BE a hole penetrating the second touch insulating film TINS2 to expose the second connection electrode BE 2. The first sub driving electrode STE1 may BE connected to the second connection electrode BE2 through the second touch contact hole TCNT 2.

The third touch contact hole TCNT3 may BE a hole penetrating the second touch insulating film TINS2 to expose the second connection electrode BE 2. The second sub driving electrode STE2 may BE connected to the second connection electrode BE2 through the third touch contact hole TCNT 3.

Due to the presence of the second connection electrode BE2, the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the second sub driving electrode STE2 may BE electrically isolated from the sub sensing electrode SRE. Accordingly, mutual capacitances may be formed between the first and second sub drive electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sense electrodes SRE.

The number of the second pixels PX2 surrounded by the first sub driving electrode STE1 may decrease from the edge of the first sub display area SDA1 toward the center. In addition, the number of the second pixels PX2 surrounded by the second sub driving electrode STE2 may decrease from the edge of the first sub display area SDA1 toward the center. In addition, the number of the second pixels PX2 surrounded by the sub sensing electrode SRE may decrease from the edge of the first sub display area SDA1 toward the center.

Fig. 13A is a layout view of the region a-2 of fig. 8. Fig. 13B is a layout view of the region B-2 of fig. 13A. Fig. 14 is a sectional view taken along line E-E' of fig. 13B.

The embodiment of fig. 13A, 13B and 14 differs from the embodiment of fig. 11A, 11B and 12 in that: the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the second connection electrode BE2 are disposed in the same layer. The embodiment of fig. 13A, 13B and 14 will be described hereinafter, focusing mainly on the difference from the embodiment of fig. 11A, 11B and 12 for convenience of explanation.

Referring to fig. 13A, 13B and 14, the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the second connection electrode BE2 may BE integrally formed. The first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the second connection electrode BE2 may BE disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction), and the sub sensing electrode SRE may BE disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). That is, the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the second connection electrode BE2 may BE disposed in the same layer as the first connection electrode BE1 and include the same material as the first connection electrode BE 1. In addition, the sub sensing electrodes SRE may be disposed in the same layer as the driving electrodes TE and the sensing electrodes RE and include the same material as the driving electrodes TE and the sensing electrodes RE.

The second connection electrode BE2 may overlap the sub-sensing electrode SRE (e.g., in the Z direction). The first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the second connection electrode BE2 may BE disposed in a different layer from the sub sensing electrode SRE. Accordingly, the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the second sub driving electrode STE2 may be electrically isolated from the sub sensing electrode SRE. Accordingly, mutual capacitances may be formed between the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrodes SRE.

Fig. 15 is a layout diagram of the region a of fig. 5.

The embodiment of fig. 15 differs from the embodiment of fig. 8 in that: the auxiliary electrode TAE is spaced apart from the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2, and the sub sensing electrode SRE. The embodiment of fig. 15 will be described hereinafter, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment of fig. 8 for ease of explanation.

Referring to the embodiment of fig. 15, the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be disposed in an upper left portion of the first sub display area SDA1, and the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 may be disposed in a lower left portion of the first sub display area SDA 1. The third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may be disposed in a lower right portion of the first sub display area SDA1, and the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be disposed in an upper right portion of the first sub display area SDA 1.

The first sub driving electrode STE1 and the sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed on an inner side of the first auxiliary electrode TAE 1. The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be disposed on an outer side of the first auxiliary electrode TAE 1. The first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be spaced apart from the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the first sub-driving electrode STE1, and the sub-sensing electrode SRE. That is, the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may not be connected to (e.g., may not contact) the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the first sub-driving electrode STE1, and the sub-sensing electrode SRE.

Also, the second sub driving electrode STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed on an inner side of the second auxiliary electrode TAE 2. The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be disposed on the outer side of the second auxiliary electrode TAE 2. The second auxiliary electrode TAE2 may be spaced apart from the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the second sub-driving electrode STE2, and the sub-sensing electrode SRE. That is, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 may not be connected to (e.g., may not contact) the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the second sub-driving electrode STE2, and the sub-sensing electrode SRE.

The second sub driving electrode STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed on an inner side of the third auxiliary electrode TAE 3. The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be disposed on an outer side of the third auxiliary electrode TAE 3. The third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may be spaced apart from the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the second sub-driving electrode STE2, and the sub-sensing electrode SRE. That is, the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may not be connected to (e.g., may not contact) the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the second sub driving electrode STE2, and the sub sensing electrode SRE.

The first sub driving electrode STE1 and the sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed on an inner side of the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE 4. The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be disposed on an outer side of the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE 4. The fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be spaced apart from the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the first sub-driving electrode STE1, and the sub-sensing electrode SRE. That is, the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may not be connected to (e.g., may not contact) the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the first sub driving electrode STE1, and the sub sensing electrode SRE.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 15, the driving electrode TE disposed on the upper side of the first sub display area SDA1 may be directly connected to the first sub driving electrode STE1 through a gap formed between the first and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE 4. The driving electrode TE disposed on the lower side of the first sub display area SDA1 may be directly connected to the second sub driving electrode STE2 through a gap formed between the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the third auxiliary electrode TAE 3. The sensing electrode RE disposed on the left side of the first sub display area SDA1 may be directly connected to the sub sensing electrode SRE through a gap formed between the first and second auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE 2. The sensing electrode RE disposed on the right side of the first sub display area SDA1 may be directly connected to the sub sensing electrode SRE through a gap formed between the third and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE3 and TAE 4. Accordingly, a mutual capacitance may be formed between the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE in the first sub display area SDA 1.

The first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be connected to a first auxiliary line TAL1, the first auxiliary line TAL1 being between the driving electrode TE disposed on the upper side (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub-display area SDA1 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the left side (e.g., in the X direction) of the first sub-display area SDA 1. Accordingly, the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 can be driven in a self-capacitance manner that applies a touch driving signal via the first auxiliary line TAL1 and detects a change in charge in the self-capacitance formed by the first auxiliary electrode TAE 1.

The second auxiliary electrode TAE2 may be connected to a second auxiliary line TAL2, the second auxiliary line TAL2 being between the driving electrode TE disposed on the lower side (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub-display area SDA1 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the left side (e.g., in the X direction) of the first sub-display area SDA 1. Accordingly, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 can be driven in a self-capacitance manner that applies a touch driving signal via the second auxiliary line TAL2 and detects a change in charge in the self-capacitance formed by the second auxiliary electrode TAE 2.

The third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may be connected to a third auxiliary line TAL3, the third auxiliary line TAL3 being between the driving electrode TE disposed on the lower side (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub-display area SDA1 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the right side (e.g., in the X direction) of the first sub-display area SDA 1. Accordingly, the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 can be driven in a self-capacitance manner that applies a touch driving signal via the third auxiliary line TAL3 and detects a change in charge in the self-capacitance formed by the third auxiliary electrode TAE 3.

The fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be connected to a fourth auxiliary line TAL4, the fourth auxiliary line TAL4 being between the driving electrode TE disposed on the upper side (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub-display area SDA1 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the right side (e.g., in the X direction) of the first sub-display area SDA 1. Accordingly, the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 can be driven in a self-capacitance manner that applies a touch driving signal via the fourth auxiliary line TAL4 and detects a change in charge in the self-capacitance formed by the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE 4.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 15, the first, second, third, and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1, TAE2, TAE3, and TAE4 may be used as touch electrodes separated from the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, the first and second sub-driving electrodes STE1 and STE2, and the sub-sensing electrode SRE. Accordingly, a touch input may be detected in the first sub display area SDA1 not only by mutual capacitances formed between the first and second sub drive electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sense electrodes SRE in the first sub display area SDA1 but also by self capacitances formed between the first, second, third, and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1, TAE2, TAE3, and TAE 4. Accordingly, the touch sensitivity in the first sub display area SDA1 may be increased.

The second, third, and fourth sub-display areas SDA2, SDA3, and SDA4 of fig. 2 and 3 may be substantially the same as the first sub-display area SDA1 of fig. 15, and thus, a detailed description thereof will be omitted for convenience of explanation.

Fig. 16 is a layout view of the region a-3 of fig. 15. Fig. 17 is a sectional view taken along line F-F' of fig. 16. Fig. 18 is a sectional view taken along line G-G' of fig. 16. Fig. 19 is a sectional view taken along line G-G' of fig. 16.

Referring to the embodiments of fig. 16 to 19, the first and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE4 may be disposed between the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the driving electrode TE. The first and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE4 may not be connected to the first sub driving electrode STE1 and the driving electrode TE. The first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be spaced apart from each other.

When the first and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE4 are spaced apart from each other, a gap may be formed between the first and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE 4. Accordingly, the driving electrode TE may be disposed between the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE 4. Accordingly, the driving electrode TE may extend between the first and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE4 (e.g., in the Y direction) to be directly connected to the first sub driving electrode STE 1.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 17, the first sub driving electrode STE1 may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). In addition, the second sub driving electrode STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). That is, the first and second sub driving electrodes STE1 and STE2 and the sub sensing electrode SRE may be disposed in the same layer as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE and include the same material as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 18, the first and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE4 may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). In addition, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). That is, the first, second, third, and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1, TAE2, TAE3, and TAE4 may be disposed in the same layer as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE, and include the same material as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, as shown in the embodiment of fig. 19, the first and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1 and TAE4 may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). Further, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). The drive electrode TE may be disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). The sensing electrode RE may also be disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). That is, the first, second, third, and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1, TAE2, TAE3, and TAE4 may BE disposed in the same layer as the first and second connection electrodes BE1 and BE2, and include the same material as the first and second connection electrodes BE1 and BE 2.

Fig. 20 is a layout view of the region a-4 of fig. 15. Fig. 21 is a sectional view taken along line H-H' of fig. 20. Fig. 22 is a sectional view taken along line H-H' of fig. 20.

Referring to the embodiments of fig. 20 to 22, a first auxiliary line TAL1 connected to the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 may be disposed between the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. The first auxiliary line TAL1 may be spaced apart from the drive electrode TE and the sense electrode RE. The first auxiliary line TAL1 may be electrically isolated from the drive electrode TE and the sense electrode RE.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 21, the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the first auxiliary line TAL1 may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). Further, a second auxiliary electrode TAE2, a second auxiliary line TAL2, a third auxiliary electrode TAE3, a third auxiliary line TAL3, a fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4, and a fourth auxiliary line TAL4 may be provided on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., provided directly thereon in the Z direction). That is, the first auxiliary electrode TAE1, the first auxiliary line TAL1, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2, the second auxiliary line TAL2, the third auxiliary electrode TAE3, the third auxiliary line TAL3, the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4, and the fourth auxiliary line TAL4 may be disposed in the same layer as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE, and include the same material as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, as shown in fig. 22, the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 may be disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). Further, the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 may be provided on the first touch insulating film TINS1 (e.g., directly provided thereon in the Z direction). That is, the first, second, third, and fourth auxiliary electrodes TAE1, TAE2, TAE3, and TAE4 may BE disposed in the same layer as the first and second connection electrodes BE1 and BE2, and include the same material as the first and second connection electrodes BE1 and BE 2.

Fig. 23 is a layout view of the region a of fig. 5.

The embodiment of fig. 23 differs from the embodiment of fig. 15 in that: the auxiliary touch electrode ASE is disposed on the outer side of the first sub display area SDA 1. The embodiment of fig. 23 will be described hereinafter, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment of fig. 15 for ease of explanation.

Referring to the embodiment of fig. 23, the auxiliary touch electrode ASE may include a first auxiliary touch electrode ASE1, a second auxiliary touch electrode ASE2, a third auxiliary touch electrode ASE3, a fourth auxiliary touch electrode ASE4, a fifth auxiliary touch electrode ASE5, a sixth auxiliary touch electrode ASE6, a seventh auxiliary touch electrode ASE7, and an eighth auxiliary touch electrode ASE 8.

The first auxiliary touch electrode ASE1 may be disposed between the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the upper side (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The first auxiliary touch electrode ASE1 may be spaced apart from (e.g., not connected to) the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the upper side of the first sub display area SDA 1. The first auxiliary touch electrode ASE1 may be electrically isolated from the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the upper side of the first sub display area SDA 1.

The second auxiliary touch electrode ASE2 may be disposed between the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the upper side (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The second auxiliary touch electrode ASE2 may be spaced apart from (e.g., not connected to) the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the upper side of the first sub display area SDA 1. The second auxiliary touch electrode ASE2 may be electrically isolated from the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the upper side of the first sub display area SDA 1.

The third auxiliary touch electrode ASE3 may be disposed between the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the left side (e.g., in the X direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The third auxiliary touch electrode ASE3 may be spaced apart from (e.g., not connected to) the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the left side of the first sub-display area SDA 1. The third auxiliary touch electrode ASE3 may be electrically isolated from the first auxiliary electrode TAE1 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the left side of the first sub display area SDA 1.

The fourth auxiliary touch electrode ASE4 may be disposed between the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the left side (e.g., in the X direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The fourth auxiliary touch electrode ASE4 may be spaced apart from (e.g., not connected to) the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the left side of the first sub-display area SDA 1. The fourth auxiliary touch electrode ASE4 may be electrically isolated from the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the left side of the first sub display area SDA 1.

The fifth auxiliary touch electrode ASE5 may be disposed between the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the lower side (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The fifth auxiliary touch electrode ASE5 may be spaced apart from (e.g., not connected to) the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the lower side of the first sub display area SDA 1. The fifth auxiliary touch electrode ASE5 may be electrically isolated from the second auxiliary electrode TAE2 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the lower side of the first sub display area SDA 1.

The sixth auxiliary touch electrode ASE6 may be disposed between the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the lower side (e.g., in the Y direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The sixth auxiliary touch electrode ASE6 may be spaced apart from (e.g., not connected to) the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the lower side of the first sub display area SDA 1. The sixth auxiliary touch electrode ASE6 may be electrically isolated from the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 and the driving electrode TE disposed on the lower side of the first sub display area SDA 1.

The seventh auxiliary touch electrode ASE7 may be disposed between the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the right side (e.g., in the X direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The seventh auxiliary touch electrode ASE7 may be spaced apart from (e.g., not connected to) the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the right side of the first sub-display area SDA 1. The seventh auxiliary touch electrode ASE7 may be electrically isolated from the third auxiliary electrode TAE3 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the right side of the first sub display area SDA 1.

The eighth auxiliary touch electrode ASE8 may be disposed between the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the right side (e.g., in the X direction) of the first sub display area SDA 1. The eighth auxiliary touch electrode ASE8 may be spaced apart from (e.g., not connected to) the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the right side of the first sub-display area SDA 1. The eighth auxiliary touch electrode ASE8 may be electrically isolated from the fourth auxiliary electrode TAE4 and the sensing electrode RE disposed on the right side of the first sub display area SDA 1.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 23, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth auxiliary touch electrodes ASE1, ASE2, ASE3, ASE4, ASE5, ASE6, ASE7, and ASE8 may detect a touch input through capacitances formed by the auxiliary drive electrodes ATE and the auxiliary sense electrodes ARE, which will be described later with reference to the embodiments of fig. 24 to 27. Accordingly, the touch sensitivity in the first sub display area SDA1 may be increased.

The second, third, and fourth sub-display areas SDA2, SDA3, and SDA4 of fig. 2 and 3 may be substantially the same as the first sub-display area SDA1 of fig. 23, and thus, a detailed description thereof will be omitted for convenience of description.

Fig. 24 is a layout view of the region a-5 of fig. 23. Fig. 25 is a sectional view taken along line I-I' of fig. 24.

Referring to the embodiments of fig. 24 and 25, the first auxiliary touch electrode ASE1 may include an auxiliary drive electrode ATE and an auxiliary sense electrode ARE. The auxiliary drive electrodes ATE may extend in a fourth direction DR 4. The auxiliary sensing electrode ARE may extend in a fifth direction DR 5. The auxiliary drive electrode ATE may completely overlap (e.g. in the Z-direction) with the auxiliary sense electrode ARE. Thus, a mutual capacitance may be formed between the auxiliary drive electrode ATE and the auxiliary sense electrode ARE.

In an embodiment, the auxiliary drive electrodes ATE and the auxiliary sense electrodes ARE may have a mesh or fish net structure in a plan view (e.g., in a plane defined in the X-direction and the Y-direction). Accordingly, the auxiliary driving electrode ATE and the auxiliary sensing electrode ARE may not overlap with the emission units EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA14 of each of the first pixels PX 1. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the brightness of light emitted from the emission cells EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA14 from being lowered due to being blocked by the auxiliary driving electrode ATE and the auxiliary sensing electrode ARE.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 25, the auxiliary driving electrodes ATE may be disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). That is, the auxiliary driving electrode ATE may BE disposed in the same layer as the first and second connection electrodes BE1 and BE2, and include the same material as the first and second connection electrodes BE1 and BE 2.

The auxiliary sensing electrode ARE may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2 (e.g., directly disposed thereon in the Z direction). That is, the auxiliary sensing electrode ARE may be disposed in the same layer as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE and include the same material as the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

Fig. 26 is a layout view of the region a-5 of fig. 23. Fig. 27 is a sectional view taken along line J-J' of fig. 26.

Referring to the embodiments of fig. 26 and 27, the first auxiliary touch electrode ASE1 may include an auxiliary drive electrode ATE and an auxiliary sense electrode ARE. The auxiliary drive electrodes ATE may extend in a fifth direction DR 5. The auxiliary sensing electrodes ARE may extend in the fourth direction DR4 and may be arranged in the fifth direction DR 5. Thus, the auxiliary drive electrode ATE may intersect the auxiliary sense electrode ARE. Thus, a mutual capacitance may be formed at the intersection between the auxiliary drive electrode ATE and the auxiliary sense electrode ARE.

As shown in fig. 26, in an embodiment in which the auxiliary drive electrodes ATE intersect the auxiliary sense electrodes ARE, touch sensitivity may be increased so that a proximity touch such as hovering may be detected. If the auxiliary driving electrodes ATE and the auxiliary sensing electrodes ARE formed to be wider than the driving electrodes TE and the sensing electrodes RE, the touch sensitivity may be further increased. In addition, if the auxiliary drive electrodes ATE and the auxiliary sense electrodes ARE formed thicker (e.g., length in the Z direction) than the drive electrodes TE and the sense electrodes RE, the touch sensitivity may be further increased. In addition, if the thickness of the insulating film between the auxiliary drive electrodes ATE and the auxiliary sense electrodes ARE is reduced, the touch sensitivity may be further increased.

In an embodiment, the auxiliary drive electrodes ATE and the auxiliary sense electrodes ARE may have a mesh or fish net structure in a plan view (e.g., in a plane defined in the X-direction and the Y-direction). Accordingly, the auxiliary driving electrode ATE and the auxiliary sensing electrode ARE may not overlap (e.g., in the Z direction) with the emission units EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA14 of each of the first pixels PX 1. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the brightness of light emitted from the emission units EA11, EA12, EA13, and EA14 from being lowered due to being blocked by the auxiliary driving electrode ATE and the auxiliary sensing electrode ARE.

As shown in the embodiment of fig. 27, the auxiliary driving electrodes ATE may be disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1 (e.g., disposed directly thereon in the Z direction). That is, the auxiliary driving electrode ATE may BE disposed in the same layer as the first and second connection electrodes BE1 and BE2, and include the same material as the first and second connection electrodes BE1 and BE 2.

Fig. 28 is a layout diagram of the region a of fig. 5.

Referring to fig. 28, the first sub display area SDA1 may be surrounded by one driving electrode TE (e.g., in the X and Y directions). In this embodiment, the first sub display area SDA1 may include one auxiliary electrode TAE and one sub driving electrode STE. As shown in the embodiment of fig. 28, the auxiliary electrode TAE may be disposed along an edge of the first sub display area SDA 1. The auxiliary electrode TAE may be disposed to surround the sub driving electrode STE. The driving electrode TE, the auxiliary electrode TAE, and the sub driving electrode STE may be electrically connected.

Fig. 28 shows that the first sub display area SDA1 is surrounded by one driving electrode TE. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, the first sub-display area SDA1 may be surrounded by one sensing electrode RE. In this embodiment, the sensing electrode RE, the auxiliary electrode TAE, and the sub driving electrode STE may be electrically connected.

Fig. 29 is a layout diagram illustrating the first sub display region and the second sub display region of fig. 3. Fig. 30 is a sectional view taken along line K-K' of fig. 29.

Referring to the embodiments of fig. 29 and 30, the first pixel PX1 may be disposed in the main display area MDA. As shown in the embodiment of fig. 6, each of the first pixels PX1 may include a first emission unit EA11, a second emission unit EA12, a third emission unit EA13, and a fourth emission unit EA 14. The first pixel PX1 has been described above with reference to fig. 6, and thus, for convenience of explanation, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Each of the second pixels PX2 may include a pixel emission unit PEA, a pixel driving unit TR, and a pixel connection unit PC.

The pixel emission unit PEA may be disposed in the first sub display area SDA1 and the second sub display area SDA 2. The pixel emission unit PEA may include a first emission unit EA21, a second emission unit EA22, a third emission unit EA23, and a fourth emission unit EA24, as shown in the embodiment of fig. 9. The first, second, third, and fourth emission units EA21, EA22, EA23, and EA24 are substantially the same as their corresponding counterparts of fig. 9, and thus, a detailed description thereof will be omitted for convenience of explanation.

The pixel emission unit PEA may include a material capable of transmitting light therethrough. In one example, referring to the embodiment of fig. 30, each of the pixel emission units PEA may include a pixel electrode 171, a light emitting layer 172, and a common electrode 173. In an embodiment, the pixel electrode 171 and the common electrode 173 of each of the pixel emission units PEA may be formed of TCO capable of transmitting light therethrough, such as ITO or IZO. However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. As shown in the embodiment of fig. 30, each of the pixel emission units PEA may include at least a portion of the substrate SUB, the barrier film BR, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, the second interlayer insulating film 142, the first planarization film 160, the second planarization film 180, the pixel electrode 171, the light emitting layer 172, the common electrode 173, the first encapsulation inorganic film TFE1, the encapsulation organic film TFE2, the second encapsulation inorganic film TFE3, the first touch insulating film TINS1, the second touch insulating film TINS2, and the third touch insulating film TINS 3. Accordingly, light incident on the pixel emission unit PEA may pass through the pixel emission unit PEA. Since the light-transmitting area TA and the pixel emission unit PEA may transmit light therethrough in each of the first sub-display area SDA1 and the second sub-display area SDA2, the amount of light incident on the optical devices such as the proximity sensor 740 and the illuminance sensor 750 may be increased.

The pixel driving unit TR may be disposed in the main display area MDA. Each of the pixel driving units TR may include a plurality of thin film transistors ST 1.

The pixel connection unit PC may connect the pixel driving unit TR and the pixel emission unit PEA. The pixel connection unit PC may extend from the pixel electrode 171 as shown in the embodiment of fig. 30. That is, the pixel connection unit PC may be disposed in the same layer as the pixel electrode 171 and include the same material as the pixel electrode 171. The pixel connection unit PC may be disposed on the second planarization film 180. The pixel connection unit PC may be connected to the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 through the third connection contact hole ANCT 3.

The auxiliary electrode TAE' may overlap the pixel driving unit TR (e.g., in the Z direction). In an embodiment, the auxiliary electrode TAE 'may be driven in a self-capacitance manner that detects a change in charge in a self-capacitance formed by the auxiliary electrode TAE'. Since the pixel driving unit TR is an area not emitting light, the auxiliary electrode TAE' may be formed to overlap the entire pixel driving unit TR. Since the touch input may be detected by the self capacitance formed by the auxiliary electrodes TAE' disposed around the first and second sub display areas SDA1 and SDA2, the touch sensitivity around the first and second sub display areas SDA1 and SDA2 may be increased.

Fig. 31 is a layout diagram illustrating the first sub display region and the second sub display region of fig. 3. Fig. 32 is a sectional view taken along line L-L' of fig. 31.

The embodiment of fig. 31 and 32 differs from the embodiment of fig. 29 and 30 in that: the auxiliary electrode TAE' is formed in a mesh shape to prevent the color filters CF1 and CF2 provided instead of the polarizing film POL from becoming visible due to reflection of external light. Therefore, for ease of explanation, descriptions of other features of the embodiment of fig. 31 and 32 will be omitted.

In the display device according to the embodiment of the inventive concept, since the auxiliary electrodes connected to the sub driving electrodes and the sub sensing electrodes are disposed in the additional space on the edge of the sub display area, the mutual capacitance formed between the sub driving electrodes and the sub sensing electrodes may be enhanced. Therefore, the touch sensitivity in the sub display area can be increased.

In the display device according to the embodiment of the inventive concept, the auxiliary electrode may be used as a touch electrode separated from the driving electrode, the sensing electrode, the sub driving electrode, and the sub sensing electrode. Accordingly, a touch input may be detected not only by a mutual capacitance formed between the sub driving electrode and the sub sensing electrode but also by a self capacitance formed by the auxiliary electrode. Therefore, the touch sensitivity in the sub display area can be increased.

In the display device according to the embodiment of the inventive concept, the auxiliary touch electrode may be disposed around the sub display area, and the touch input may be detected by a mutual capacitance formed between the sub driving electrode and the sub sensing electrode. Accordingly, the touch sensitivity around the sub display area can be increased.

However, the effects of the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited to the effects set forth herein.

While the present inventive concept has been particularly shown and described with reference to embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present inventive concept as defined by the following claims. The embodiments of the inventive concept described herein should be considered in descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising:

a first display region including first pixels, driving electrodes, and sensing electrodes;

a second display region including second pixels, sub driving electrodes, and sub sensing electrodes; and

an auxiliary electrode between the first display region and the second display region,

wherein the number of the first pixels per unit area of the first display region is greater than the number of the second pixels per unit area of the second display region.

2. The display device of claim 1, wherein the auxiliary electrodes include a first auxiliary electrode between the first drive electrode of the drive electrodes and the first sub-drive electrode of the sub-drive electrodes, and a second auxiliary electrode between the first sense electrode of the sense electrodes and the first sub-sense electrode of the sub-sense electrodes.

3. The display device of claim 2, wherein:

the driving electrode, the first auxiliary electrode, and the sub driving electrode are electrically connected to each other; and

the sensing electrode, the second auxiliary electrode, and the sub-sensing electrode are electrically connected to each other.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein a maximum width of the first auxiliary electrode is greater than maximum widths of the driving electrode and the sub-driving electrodes, or

Wherein a maximum width of the second auxiliary electrode is greater than maximum widths of the sensing electrode and the sub-sensing electrodes.

5. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the auxiliary electrode further comprises:

a third auxiliary electrode spaced apart from the first auxiliary electrode and the second auxiliary electrode and between the second driving electrode of the driving electrodes and the second sub driving electrode of the sub driving electrodes; and

a fourth auxiliary electrode spaced apart from the first, second and third auxiliary electrodes and between the second sensing electrode of the sensing electrodes and the second sub-sensing electrodes of the sub-sensing electrodes.

6. The display device of claim 5, further comprising:

a connection electrode between the sub driving electrodes, the connection electrode electrically connecting adjacent ones of the sub driving electrodes,

wherein the connection electrode overlaps the sub sensing electrode.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein the sub driving electrodes and the connection electrodes are provided in the same layer, or

Wherein the connection electrode is disposed in a different layer from the sub driving electrodes.

8. The display device of claim 2, wherein:

the first auxiliary electrode is spaced apart from and not connected to the driving electrode and the sub driving electrodes, and

the second auxiliary electrode is spaced apart from and not connected to the sensing electrode and the sub-sensing electrode.

9. The display device of claim 8, wherein the first and second auxiliary electrodes are disposed in a different layer than the driving electrodes, the sub-driving electrodes, the sensing electrodes, and the sub-sensing electrodes, or

Wherein the first auxiliary electrode and the second auxiliary electrode are disposed in the same layer as the driving electrode, the sub-driving electrodes, the sensing electrode, and the sub-sensing electrodes.

10. The display device of claim 2, further comprising:

an auxiliary touch electrode between the first auxiliary electrode and the driving electrode, an

Wherein:

the auxiliary touch electrode includes an auxiliary driving electrode and an auxiliary sensing electrode; and

the auxiliary drive electrode and the auxiliary sense electrode are spaced apart from and not connected to the first auxiliary electrode and the drive electrode.